Behind the wall optical connector with reduced components

ABSTRACT

A behind-the-wall optical connector an outer housing configured to be inserted into an adapter with a corresponding inner surface, a ferrule included in an annular collar to mate with a corresponding projection at an adapter opening, and a latch attached to one side of housing configured to lock the connecter into an adapter opening. The latch is further configured with a locking channel and guide to accept a pull tab with a catch at one end, the pull tab releases the connector from the adapter opening when the tab is pulled rearward or away from the adapter.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 16/448,030 filed onJun. 21, 2019, titled “BEHIND THE WALL OPTICAL CONNECTOR WITH REDUCEDCOMPONENTS”, which is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 15/926,263 filedon Mar. 20, 2018, titled “BEHIND THE WALL OPTICAL CONNECTOR WITH REDUCEDCOMPONENTS”, which is a continuation in part of U.S. Ser. No. 15/847,875filed on Dec. 19, 2017, titled “BEHIND THE WALL OPTICAL CONNECTOR WITHREDUCED COMPONENTS”, claiming priority under 35 U.S.C. sec. 119(e) toU.S. Ser. No. 62/482,790 filed on Apr. 7, 2017 titled “BEHIND THE WALLOPTICAL CONNECTOR WITH REDUCED COMPONENTS”, all of which are herebyincorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure field of invention relates generally to fiberoptic connectors having a release. More specifically, the presentdisclosure relates to narrow width adapters and connectors, such asnarrow pitch distance Lucent Connector (LC) duplex adapters and narrowwidth multi-fiber connectors.

The prevalence of the Internet has led to unprecedented growth incommunication networks. Consumer demand for service and increasedcompetition has caused network providers to continuously find ways toimprove quality of service while reducing cost. Certain solutions haveincluded deployment of high-density interconnect panels. High-densityinterconnect panels may be designed to consolidate the increasing volumeof interconnections necessary to support the fast-growing networks intoa compacted form factor, thereby increasing quality of service anddecreasing costs such as floor space and support overhead. However, thedeployment of high-density interconnect panels is still advancing.

In communication networks, such as data centers and switching networks,numerous interconnections between mating connectors may be compactedinto high-density panels. Panel and connector producers may optimize forsuch high densities by shrinking the connector size and/or the spacingbetween adjacent connectors on the panel. Thus, generally, moreconnectors are used in a high density array. As the numbers ofconnectors in a switching network increases, the associated cost ofcreating the switching network similarly increases. Generally, theconstruction of connectors includes the use of various components. Themanufacturing process used to make these connectors and the componentsused to build them can greatly affect their cost per unit.

With high density switching networks and large data centers usingthousands of these connectors, the cost per unit can have an extremeimpact on the overall cost of designing and implementing a data center.Thus, if a new lower cost connector (e.g., a lower cost behind-the-wall(BTW) connector) could be developed, it could have a profound effect onthe cost of building out a data center.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The present invention is directed to low-profile, reduced sizedconnector used in fiber optic networks. The connector is inserted intoan adapter or transceiver receptacle to mate with an opposing fiberoptic connector of the same type, or different configuration orelectronics that convert the light signal over the fiber optic into anelectrical signal, or vice versa.

The behind-the-wall connector has an outer housing shaped to be receivedin an adapter opening similarly configured to help align the connectorbefore the connector is secured in the adapter. The connector has arelease or latch with a recess that secures the connector in the adaptervia an opening in the adapter housing. The connector release isintegrated at one end of the connector housing, and extends beyond asecond end. The second end of the release latches into the adapteropening.

In another embodiment, the release accepts a pull tab that removes theconnector from the adapter housing. The pull tab snaps onto the releaseand is aligned with the release through a guide on the release thatallows the pull tab to slidably move rearward to release the connectorfrom the adapter.

In another embodiment a removal tool can be used to release theconnector from the adapter housing. The removal tool is inserted ontothe release via a protrusion that is placed through an opening in therelease. The tool has an alignment tab that engages a correspondingchannel on the release to guide the protrusion into the opening and helpensure the tool does not get jammed into the adapter port. Theprotrusion has a stop that engages a surface within the opening of therelease.

In another embodiment, the adapter has a shroud at a first end thatreceives the second end of the BTW connector, the shroud inner surfaceis configured to engage an outer surface of the connector, and ferrulealignment sleeves are configured to engage corresponding ferrule openingwith a ferrule therein, to connect the BTW connector with an opposingconnector in the adapter.

Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth inthe detailed description below, and in part apparent to those skilled inthe art of the invention. It is understood that foregoing summary,drawings and detailed description are intended to provide a framework oroverview for understanding the scope of the invention claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a typical behind-the-wall connector.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a typical behind-the-wallconnector.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a redesignedbehind-the-wall connector including a tension spring.

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a redesignedbehind-the-wall connector including a tension spring.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a redesignedbehind-the-wall connector without a tension spring.

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a redesignedbehind-the-wall connector without a tension spring.

FIG. 7 is a detailed cross-sectional view of an embodiment of aredesigned behind-the wall connector without a tension spring.

FIG. 8 is a zoomed-in detailed cross-sectional view of an embodiment ofa redesigned behind-the wall connector without a tension spring.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a redesignedbehind-the-wall connector without a tension spring.

FIG. 10 is an illustrative embodiment of a connector within an adapterhousing.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are illustrative embodiments of connectors withinjunior and senior sides of an adapter housing, respectively; FIG. 11C isa cross-sectional view of a connector within an adapter housing.

FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D show embodiments of a connector with anoptional boot according to a further embodiment.

FIGS. 13A and 13C depict an optical connector with a connector insertiontool; FIG. 13B depicts a cross-section of the insertion tool.

FIG. 14 is an exploded view of a connector according to an embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 15A is a perspective view of an adapter and an assembled connectorof FIG. 14 just prior to insertion into an adapter.

FIG. 15B is a cross-section view of an adapter with the connector ofFIG. 14 inserted and latched in an adapter.

FIG. 16A is an exploded view of the adapter in FIG. 15A with a plural ofhooks prior to insertion into an adapter.

FIG. 16B is a perspective view of a connector according to an embodimentof the present invention prior to insertion into the adapter of FIG. 16Awith a plural of hooks inserted into an adapter.

FIG. 17A is an exploded view of a connector according to an embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 17B is a view of the assembled connector of FIG. 17A.

FIG. 18A is a perspective view of the connector of FIG. 17B insertedinto a simplex adapter at a first end, according to the adapter of FIG.15A and the connector of FIG. 17B inserted into the adapter at a secondend.

FIG. 18B is a perspective view of the adapter of FIG. 15A, the adapteris configured as a duplex port adapter with a pair of connectors of FIG.17B or FIG. 16B inserted into a first end of the adapter and a pair ofconnectors of FIG. 14 assembled and inserted into a second end of theadapter.

FIG. 19A is a perspective view of a behind-the-wall connector.

FIG. 19B is a perspective view of a pull tab connector.

FIG. 19C is a perspective view of a bend latch connector.

FIG. 19D is a perspective view of a behind-the-wall connector at aproximal end.

FIG. 20A is a perspective view of a removal tool.

FIG. 20B is a perspective view of the behind-the-wall connector.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view from the bottom of the removal tool ofFIG. 20A attached to the behind-the-wall connector of FIG. 20B.

FIG. 22 is a transparent view of the connector assembly of FIG. 21inserted into the adapter of FIG. 16A on a first side, with a hookinserted therein on the opposing side of the behind-the-wall connectoron a second side.

FIG. 23A is a perspective view of the behind-the-wall connector of FIG.20B latched into an adapter.

FIG. 23B is a perspective view of connector and adapter assembly of FIG.23A with the removal tool of FIG. 20A attached to the behind-the-wallconnector as shown by arrow “I”.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the behind-the-wall connector prior toinsertion into an adapter.

FIG. 25A is a perspective view of the adapter of FIG. 24 with a ferruleflange and ferrule flange with a spring inserted on the flange.

FIG. 25B is a perspective view of the connector and adapter system ofFIG. 24 where the connector is inserted into the adapter.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a behind-the-wall connector with a pulltab attached to a connector latch for removal of the connector from anadapter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This disclosure is not limited to the particular systems, devices andmethods described, as these may vary. The terminology used in thedescription is for the purpose of describing the particular versions orembodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope.

As used in this document, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the”include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skillin the art. Nothing in this disclosure is to be construed as anadmission that the embodiments described in this disclosure are notentitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention. Asused in this document, the term “comprising” means “including, but notlimited to.”

The following terms shall have, for the purposes of this application,the respective meanings set forth below.

A “connector,” as used herein, refers to a device and/or componentsthereof that connects a first module or cable to a second module orcable. The connector may be configured for fiber optic transmission orelectrical signal transmission. The connector may be any suitable typenow known or later developed, such as, for example, a ferrule connector(FC), a fiber distributed data interface (FDDI) connector, an LCconnector, a mechanical transfer (MT) connector, a square connector (SC)connector, an SC duplex connector, a straight tip (ST) connector, or abehind-the-wall (BTW) connector. The connector may generally be definedby a connector housing body. In some embodiments, the housing body mayincorporate any or all of the components described herein.

A “fiber optic cable” or an “optical cable” refers to a cable containingone or more optical fibers for conducting optical signals in beams oflight. The optical fibers can be constructed from any suitabletransparent material, including glass, fiberglass, and plastic. Thecable can include a jacket or sheathing material surrounding the opticalfibers. In addition, the cable can be connected to a connector on oneend or on both ends of the cable.

Behind the wall connectors are important in today's crowded datacenters. This connector is considered a small form factor or smallfootprint connector, that is, the overall length is reduced, compare,for example, FIG. 1 with FIGS. 3 and 5. The size decrease is from theferrule or distal end to the end of the boot or proximal end of theconnector. In this invention, behind-the-wall literally means theconnector is placed behind a wall or panel, and the panels are stored inthe rack that extend from the floor to the ceiling, and the racks ofpanels, each containing numerous adapters, are positioned near anotherrack with little or no distance between the racks. As such, the removalof connector structure is needed to allow the racks to be placed veryclose together, without degrading the reliability of the connector. Inthis invention the extender cap 204 is removed along with othercomponents.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the spring was removed, andinstead of replacing with a back post (not shown), a resilient latch(308, 408, 508, 608, 115) was designed. In another embodiment the spring(307, 407) is retained. The spring allows the ferrule flange to movemore easily in response to stresses placed on the connector.

Other prior art connectors that remove the spring insert the ferrulefrom the front or distal end of the connector with an end cap or coverplaced over the plug housing to hold the ferrule flange in place. Thepresent invention inserts the ferrule flange and ferrule from the bootside or proximal end of the connector. This improves connector qualityand operation because the pull force or the force one can exert on theconnector when removing from the adapter is increased, and this reducesbreakage when employing the resilient latch.

Various embodiments described herein generally provide a cost-reducingdesign for a fiber optic connector. In some embodiments, such as thosediscussed herein, various components of typically known connectors maybe removed (e.g., an extender cap, a spring, a boot, etc.). Variousembodiments may comprise different structure types for the connector,for example, some might be flexible, and others might be more rigid.Detailed examples of these connector types are shown in the figures, anddiscussed further herein.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a standard behind-the-wall (BTW)connector 100. Generally, and as shown, a BTW connector may comprise aplug frame 101, a ferrule-flange 102, an extender cap 104, and a boot105. As shown in FIG. 2, a BTW connector is comprised of various partswhich are held together via mechanical interlock and/or spring tension.For example, as shown, a typical BTW connector may have a plug frame201. The plug frame 201 comprises the majority of the external area ofthe connector. The plug frame 201 has an opening at both ends to allowfor the insertion of additional components. One such component is theferrule-flange 202, which is usually also accompanied by a flange tube203. The ferrule-flange 202 is generally designed with an extendedcollar 206, which is designed to restrict the ferrule-flanges movementthrough the plug frame 201. Stated differently, the extended collar 206keeps the ferrule 202 from falling completely through the plug frame 201and out the front opening.

The BTW connector may also comprise a spring 203, which generally goesaround at least a portion of the flange tube and/or the ferrule-flange202 when combined. The spring 203 applies a tension to theferrule-flange 202 to prevent it from protruding out of the plug frame201 in order to maintain a good connection. However, the spring 203 mayalso provide some cushion so as to not break the ferrule 202 ifimproperly aligned. The spring 203 is then capped using an extender cap204. The extender cap 204 has a fastening mechanism 220, which isdesigned to interlock with a cutout 221 in the plug frame 201. Finally,a boot 205 is placed over the extender cap 204.

Thus, a large number of components are required to build a typical BTWconnector. Removing some of these components or replacing them withsimilar but less complex analogues can reduce the cost of a connector.Accordingly, some embodiments may, as shown in FIG. 3 remove variouscomponents. FIG. 3 shows a BTW connector 300, which comprises a plugframe 301, a ferrule flange 302, a flange tube 303, and a spring 307. Insome embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 3, the plug frame 301 maycomprise a latching member 308. The latching member 308 may be flexiblyrigid such that it can be moved via a tool or human pressure, but isrigid enough to hold the ferrule flange 302 in place in conjunction withthe spring 307. Additionally or alternatively, some embodiments mayconsist essentially of a plug frame 301, a ferrule flange 302, a flangetube 303, a spring 307, and a latching member 308.

Specifically, in some embodiments, the latching member 308 may have ahook or protrusion (not shown) which may hook or latch onto one or moreportions of the spring 307. Thus, as shown, the latching member 308 canhold the spring 307 in a fixed position, allowing the spring to exerthorizontal pressure or tension onto the ferrule 302 ensuring properplacement of the ferrule.

FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of an embodiment comprising a plug frame401, a ferrule flange 402, a flange tube 403, a spring, 407, and alatching member 408. Thus, some embodiments (e.g., the embodiments shownin FIGS. 3 and 4) may remove various components (e.g., the extender capand boot) from the design. Removing these parts, reducing the cost ofthe connector, while also maintaining proper functionality isadvantageous in almost any data center setting.

Referring now to FIG. 5, an example embodiment is shown having fewercomponents for connector design 500. As shown, the illustrativeembodiment merely includes a plug frame 501 and a ferrule-flange 502.This embodiment is achievable as a result of the configuration of thelatching member 508, and its relative position on the plug frame 501.Accordingly, some embodiments may consist essentially of a plug frame501 and a ferrule flange 502.

FIG. 6 shows an exploded view of the connector design. As is clear fromFIGS. 5 and 6, not only have the extender cap and boot been removed, butthe spring and flange tube have been removed as well. This arrangementresults from the latching member 608 of the plug frame 601 beingdesigned in a manner to take advantage of the standard shape of theferrule-flange 602. The exact interaction may be better understood withreference to FIG. 7.

As shown in FIG. 7, the ferrule-flange 702 is inside the plug frame 701.In some embodiments, the plug frame 701 may comprise one or more frontstops 709. These front stops 709 prevent the ferrule-flange 702 fromfalling out the front opening of the plug frame 701. In addition, and asshown, the latching member 708 is closed around the extended collar 706of the ferrule-flange 702. This interlocking system prevents theferrule-flange from falling or being pushed (e.g., when making aconnection) out of the back of the plug frame 701. As discussed herein,the latching member(s) 708 are flexible or elastic in nature, and thuscan be moved using a tool, or a user. By moving the latching member 708away from the side of the ferrule-flange 702 (e.g., applying outwardpressure on the latching member to disengage it from the ferrule), theferrule-flange may be removed via the rear opening of the plug frame701.

FIG. 8 illustrates a zoomed-in and more detailed view of an embodimentof a BTW connector 800 similar to that of FIG. 7. As shown, theferrule-flange 802 is within the plug frame 801, and held in placeprimarily by opposing forces placed upon the extended collar 806 of theferrule. These opposing forces are applied via the front stop 809 actingupon the front of the extended collar 806 and the latching member 808acting upon the back of the extended collar.

Referring to FIG. 9, an alternative embodiment of a connector system 900is shown. As shown in FIG. 9, the plug frame 901 is larger and morerobust that some other connectors discussed and illustrated herein.However, the ferrule-flange 902 is still held in place via means similarto those discussed in FIGS. 3-8. In this non-limiting example, the plugframe 901 comprises a latching member 908 which may interact withvarious connector components. For example, the latching member 908 may,as discussed herein, latch onto a portion of a spring thus impartingsome lateral force upon the ferrule-flange 902. In addition oralternatively, the latching member 908 may latch or interact with theextended collar (not pictured) to apply a force to keep theferrule-flange 902 within the plug frame 901. Some embodiments mayconsist essentially of a plug frame 901, a ferrule flange 902, and alatching member 908. In addition or alternatively, some embodiments mayconsist essentially of a plug frame 901 and a ferrule flange 902, aflange tube (not shown), a spring 907 (not shown), and a latching member908.

Referring now to FIG. 10, in some embodiments, the plug frame 1001 maybe placed in an adaptor 1010. In some embodiments, in which the plugframe 1001 is within the adapter 1010, the latching member (notpictured) may not be pushed out because the walls of the adapter preventit. Such embodiments impart additional strength to the connectorspecifically the plug frame 1001.

Referring now to FIGS. 11A-C, additional views of an optical connector1101 inserted into an adapter 1102 are depicted. In FIG. 11A, theconnector 1101 is positioned in the junior side of the adapter 1102. InFIG. 11B, the connector 1101 is positioned in the senior side of theadapter 1102. Both connectors have a ferrule 1152 that upon insertioninto either adapter side, engages an opening 1158 of a resilient member1156 (FIG. 11C). The resilient member 1156 is configured to expand andsecure the ferrule 1152, while aligning the ferrule 1152.

FIG. 11C shows a typical resilient member 1156, which, in an embodiment,may be fabricated from zirconia or a high strength polymer. Theresilient member 1156 has a length, inner diameter and outer diameter.When the connector 1101 is inserted into the adapter 1102, the leadingtip of the ferrule 1152 enters the resilient member 1156 opening 1158,and the ferrule 1152 outer diameter being larger than the ferrule 1152inner diameter, the ferrule 1152 expands the resilient member 1156circumferentially. The engagement of the distal end of the annularcollar 1150 is stopped at an outer surface 1162 of the resilient member1156. This helps ensure the annular collar 1150 is seated correctly, sowhen the resilient latch 1140 returns to its original or relaxed,unflexed position, the latch 1140 is seated just in front of theproximal side of the annular collar 1150, and secures the ferrule flange(402, 602) from being dislodged if unintentionally hit.

The expansion of the resilient member depends on the modulus of theresilient member 1156 material and a width of an optional cut (shown bythe pair of solid lines 1159) that runs lengthwise along the resilientmember 1156, in FIG. 11C.

In the cross-sectional view of FIG. 11C, it can clearly be seen thatplug latch 1140 is positioned adjacent the exterior wall of the plugframe of connector 1101 (also shown at 608). As such, the plug latch1140 is constrained by adapter 1102 from flexing outward and releasingthe annular ferrule collar 1150. Thus, when the connector is inserted inthe adapter, the constraint of the adapter prevents movement of theferrule 1152 within the plug frame. This constraint further secures theferrule 1152 within the resilient member 1156.

A central bore 1154 receives the annular collar 1150. The central bore1154 is also shown in FIG. 11A, where the inner dimensions of the bore1154 match the outer dimensions of the extended collar 206 or annularferrule collar 1150. The annular ferrule collar 1150 is generally roundor annular and can contain surface features to aid in placement in theplug frame. The ferrule collar 206 is shown in FIG. 2 with a hexagonalouter dimensional appearance. Other outer surface features may be usedwithout departing from the scope of the invention. A typical purpose ofthese features is to aid in connector assembly.

Depending upon the application environment of the optical connectors ofthe various embodiments, that is, both embodiments with a spring andembodiments without a spring, it may be desirable to affix a boot to theoptical connector to protect optical fibers positioned therein. This maybe a consideration when forces that may be applied to the optical fiberscould damage or break the fibers so that the extra protection that aboot provides may be desirable. As seen in FIGS. 12A-12D, an optionalboot 1203 may be affixed to the optical connector 1201. As with previousembodiments, the optical connector 1201 includes a ferrule 1202. Toaffix the boot to the connector, apertures 1204 are provided. As bestseen in FIG. 12B, engagement projections 1220 provided at the distal endof the boot 1203 are inserted into connector apertures 1204 to retainthe boot in a position extending from the proximal end of the connectorplug frame. In both the side view of FIG. 12C and the adapter/connectorassembly view of 12D, apertures 1204 with engagement projections 1220are clearly depicted.

To facilitate assembly of the ferrule within the plug frame, aninsertion tool 1310 is provided as seen in the several views of FIGS.13A-13C. In FIG. 13A, the handle 1320 of insertion tool 1310 is visibleas the tool is inserted within optical connector 1301. To accommodateoptical fiber, insertion tool 1310 features a generally C-shapedcross-section as seen in FIG. 13B, with various cross-sectional shapesalong its length to receive the ferrule and the ferrule collar. As seenin FIG. 13C, the distal end portion 1330 of the insertion tool 1310features a reduced cross-section so that the tool may be inserted intothe bore of connector 1301 to position the ferrule therein.

Referring to FIG. 14, an exploded view of a connector according to thepresent invention shows a dust cap 1480 may be inserted into a frontbody 1401 at the proximal end, in the direction of the arrow “A”. Thedust cap prevents debris from contacting a ferrule that may interferewith a fiber optic signal. The front body 1401 further comprises a latch1401.1. The latch engages an inside surface of adapter 2340, as shown inFIG. 15B, to secure the connector 1400 in the adapter. The connectorfurther comprises a pair a ferrules 1402, ferrule flanges 1406, ferrulespring 1403 and back-body 1404 with a boot 1405 covering the ferrulesand back body attaching to the front body 1401 to form the connector1400. The connector 1400 is sometimes called a bend-latch connectorwherein the latch 1401.1 bends down when inserted into an adapter. Onceinserted, the latch snaps into the adapter housing opening as shown anddescribed in FIG. 15B.

Referring to FIG. 15A, the connector 1400 with an alternative latch1401.1 is shown prior to insertion into an adapter 2340. Referring toFIG. 15B, the connector 1400 is inserted into the adapter. A latchsurface 1401.2 engages an adapter surface 2340.1 that secures theconnector 1400 in the adapter 2340.

Referring to FIG. 16A, the adapter 2340 may accept a hook engagementdevice 1680. Referring to FIG. 16A, a hook surface 1680.1 locks into awidthwise groove 1693 on a front body 1701 of the connector 1600 asshown in FIG. 16B, which secures the connector 1600 into the adapter.The connector 1600 is sometimes called a pull tab connector as shown bya pull tab 1791 (refer to FIG. 17A) interacting with groove 1693 tounlock the connector (1600, 1700) from the hook surface 1680.1 locatedwithin the adapter 2340.

Referring to FIG. 17A, an exploded view of a pull tab connector 1700Afurther comprises a ferrule assembly 1702 called a multi-port opticalferrule or MPO ferrule. The connector 1700A further comprises awidthwise groove 1793, a front body 1701 that comprises the groove at atop surface, the ferrule assembly 1702, a back-body 1704, and boot 1705is used to cover and secure the aforementioned components to the frontbody 1701. This connector 1700A further comprises a pull tab 1791 thatcomprises a ramp area 1792. The ramp area unlocks the connector from thehook surface 1680.1 when the pull tab 1791 is pulled rearward away fromthe adapter. Referring to FIG. 17B, the connector 1700A is assembled1700B illustrating the widthwise groove 1793 and pull tab 1791.

Referring to FIG. 18A, a connector 1700B and a connector 1400 areinserted into a simplex adapter 1800A at opposing ends. The connector1700B, as described above engages and secures to a hook 1680 insertedinto the adapter 2340. Referring to FIG. 18B, a pair of connectors 1700Band connectors 1400 are inserted into a duplex adapter 1800B at opposingends. These connectors extend beyond the adapter because of theadditional structure such as boot 1405 and pull tab 1791. A connector1700B may be swapped with connector 1400 on the opposing side withoutdeparting from the scope of the present invention. The present inventionbehind-the-wall connector is substantially shorter than the connectors1700B or 1600 or 1400 as shown in FIGS. 19A-19C.

Referring to FIG. 19A, another embodiment of the behind-the-wallconnector (100, 300) is shown. Connector 1900 does not include a bootassembly (105, 205). Connector 1900 comprises a latch 1901.1 thatextends a predetermined distance “L” beyond the connector housing toensure the connector 1900 mates within an adapter (not shown), whileminimizing overall connector length exposed outside of adapter (notshown), as shown in FIG. 19A as compared with FIGS. 19B and 19C. Likeconnector 900 of FIG. 9, the boot assembly is excluded in thebehind-the-wall connector 1900. Comparing connector 1700B as shown inFIG. 18B, the connector 1900 is substantially shorter in length and morecompact, even as compared with connector 1400 as shown in FIG. 19C.Referring to FIG. 19D, connector 1900 further comprises a housing 1900.1with a mating surface 1901.5 configured to mate with an inner surface2474.1 of a shroud 2474 (refer to FIG. 24). The connector 1900 comprisesa latch 1910.1 attached to one side of the housing 1901.1. The latchfurther comprises a widthwise locking groove 1901.4 that accepts a catch2601.1 of a pull tab 2600 (refer to FIG. 26), a guide 1908.8 to slidablyhold the pull tab in place, and guide recess 1909.9 accept a portion ofthe depressed latch structure during pull tab release of the connectorfrom adapter. The locking groove 1901.4 is sized to snap in the catchupon depressing the catch into the groove, and removing the catch fromthe groove by prying the catch out of the groove. The latch 1901.1further comprises a chamfer or inclined surface 1901.10 that engages acorresponding adapter surface upon insertion of connector into adapter(not shown). The surface 1901.10 pushes the latch downward upon contactwith corresponding adapter structure for an essentially resistant freeinsertion.

Referring to FIG. 20A, removal tool 2000 is configured to engage theconnector 1900 via a protrusion 2090 configured to be inserted anopening 1902 (refer to FIG. 20B). Pulling tool 2000 rearward in adirection “R” (FIG. 21), depresses latch 1901.1 (refer to FIG. 20B),which releases connector 1900 from adapter 2340 as shown in FIG. 23A.Referring to FIG. 20A, removal tool 2000 and its protrusion 2090 furthercomprise a cutout 2909 a and a stop surface 2090 b. The cutout 2090 aengages a latch inner surface 1901.6 (refer to FIG. 24), and pulling onthe tool 2000 in a direction “A” of the arrow (refer to FIG. 23B) willrelease the connector 1900 from the adapter 2340. The stop surface addsstrength to the removal tool when it engages the latch inner surface andthe tool is pulled to release the connector 1900.

Referring to FIG. 20B, the connector 1900 comprises an opening 1902configured to receive the protrusion 2090, a channel 1901.3 configuredto receive an alignment tab 2090 c that helps ensure the tool 2000 doesnot get stuck in the adapter, and protrusion 2090 is configured to bereceived in opening 1902. Referring to FIG. 21, the protrusion 2090 isshown inserted into opening 1902 of the connector 1900. Referring toFIG. 20A, a projection 2090 d runs lengthwise along underside orattachment side to a connector of the removal tool. The projection is onboth inner sides and projects inward. This allows projection 2090 d toengage a side face 1901.7 of the latch 1901. The width of the projectionopening defines a distance “d” between the projections 2090 d (refer toFIG. 21) and “d” is sized to engage a top surface of the latch 1901.1.Projection 2090 b captures the latch side face 1901.7 to secure tool2000 and help prevent it from sliding widthwise across the latch andgetting jammed in the adapter. This is also shown in FIG. 22 at 2280.Returning to FIG. 21, the tool 2000 is secured to latch 1901.1 by sideprojections 2090 d and protrusion 2090 that extends through latchopening 1902.

Referring to FIG. 22, adapter 2340 comprises a connector 1900 insertedand latched into a first port, and an opposing adapter port or openingcomprises connector 1900 with removal tool 2000 attached thereto. Theprojections 2090 d are shown in the call out 2280 as further securingand stabilizing the tool 2000 to latch 1901.1. The alignment tab 2090 cis shown engaged in the channel 1901.3 to help ensure tool 2000 does notbecome jammed in the adapter. If the tool becomes jammed, the connectorwould be likely destroyed or damaged along with the adapter itself, upondislodging the jammed tool. The opposing side of the adapter 2340 showsa hook 1680 in an adapter port. The hook 1680 can accept connector 1700Band mate the fiber optic pathways contained in the ferrules of theconnectors 1700B and 1900 to form a signal path. Without departing fromthe scope of the invention, the hook 1680 can be removed and a connector1400 can be secured and latched into the adapter port in place ofconnector 1700B, and form the same signal path with the connector 1900.

Referring to FIG. 23A, connector 1900 is shown in a first port of aduplex adapter 2340, with a hook 1680 in an opposing port to theconnector 1900. The adapter port with a hook can accept a connector1700B, and a connector 1400 can be inserted in an adjacent port thatdoes not contain a hook 1680. The adapter comprises an opening 2340.2further comprising an adapter latching surface 2340.1 that engages acorresponding latch face 1901.2 (refer to FIG. 20B) thereby securingconnector 1900 into the adapter 2340. Referring to FIG. 23A, removaltool 2000 is not inserted onto connector 1900. Referring to FIG. 23B,the connector 1900 with a removal tool 2000 is inserted in a first portof duplex adapter. The adapter is also shown in FIG. 24. Pulling on thetool 2000 in a direction “A” of the arrow would remove the connector1900 from the adapter. Pulling on tool 2000 in direction “A” imparts adownward force “F” on latch 1901.1 separating latch face 1901.2 fromwithin adapter opening 2340.2.

Referring to FIG. 24, an embodiment of an adapter comprises an outershroud 2474, a ferrule flange alignment sleeve 2472, and a latch opening2476. The shroud 2474 further comprises an inner surface 2474.1, aplural of walls 2474.2 and a channel 2474.5 configured to accept anouter housing of the connector 1900 and its mating surface 1901.5. Thesefeatures help ensure connector 1900 when inserted into an adapter port,in the direction of arrow “I”, the connector 1900 is aligned so latch1901.1 will secure into adapter opening 2340.2 (FIG. 23A) and a latchface 1901.2 will engage and lock with a corresponding adapter latchingsurface 2340.1.

Referring to FIG. 25A, the adapter of FIG. 24 further comprises aferrule flange 2506 inserted into the ferrule flange alignment sleeveholder 2472, and further comprises a spring 2503 over ferrule flange(1906, 2504) and alignment sleeve 1906.1. The connector outer housing isnot shown. Referring to FIG. 25B, the connector 1900 is fully insertedand latched into adapter 2340 where the outer surface of the connector1900 housing engages with the inner surface 2474.1 of the shroud 2474.

Referring to FIG. 26, a pull tab 2600 is configured to attach to latch1901.1 of connector 1900. A proximal end of the pull tab 2600 furthercomprises a catch 2601.1 that engages a groove 2601.7 running widthwiseon the latch top surface. As the pull tab 2600 is moved in a directionof arrow “A1”, the catch forces the latch down in the direction of arrow“A2”, and this releases the connector 1900 from the adapter 2340.

The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particularembodiments described in this application, which are intended asillustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and variations canbe made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparentto those skilled in the art. Functionally equivalent methods andapparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to thoseenumerated herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from theforegoing descriptions. Such modifications and variations are intendedto fall within the scope of the appended claims. The present disclosureis to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along withthe full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It isto be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particularmethods, reagents, compounds, compositions or biological systems, whichcan, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminologyused herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodimentsonly, and is not intended to be limiting.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singularterms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from theplural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as isappropriate to the context and/or application. The varioussingular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sakeof clarity.

It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, termsused herein, and especially in the appended claims (for example, bodiesof the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (forexample, the term “including” should be interpreted as “including butnot limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having atleast,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but isnot limited to,” et cetera). While various compositions, methods, anddevices are described in terms of “comprising” various components orsteps (interpreted as meaning “including, but not limited to”), thecompositions, methods, and devices can also “consist essentially of” or“consist of” the various components and steps, and such terminologyshould be interpreted as defining essentially closed-member groups. Itwill be further understood by those within the art that if a specificnumber of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intentwill be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of suchrecitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid tounderstanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of theintroductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claimrecitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed toimply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinitearticles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing suchintroduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one suchrecitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases“one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or“an” (for example, “a” and/or “an” should be interpreted to mean “atleast one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use ofdefinite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, evenif a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitlyrecited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitationshould be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (for example,the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, meansat least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, inthose instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B,and C, et cetera” is used, in general such a construction is intended inthe sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention(for example, “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” wouldinclude but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, Calone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A,B, and C together, et cetera). In an instance where a conventionanalogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, et cetera” is used, in generalsuch a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the artwould understand the convention (for example, “a system having at leastone of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that haveA alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and Ctogether, and/or A, B, and C together, et cetera). It will be furtherunderstood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive wordand/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in thedescription, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplatethe possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, orboth terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood toinclude the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are describedin terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize thatthe disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individualmember or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

As will be understood by one skilled in the art, for any and allpurposes, such as in terms of providing a written description, allranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subrangesand combinations of subranges thereof. Any listed range can be easilyrecognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range beingbroken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths,tenths, et cetera. As a non-limiting example, each range discussedherein can be readily broken down into a lower third, middle third andupper third, et cetera. As will also be understood by one skilled in theart all language such as “up to,” “at least,” and the like include thenumber recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequently broken downinto subranges as discussed above. Finally, as will be understood by oneskilled in the art, a range includes each individual member. Thus, forexample, a group having 1-3 cells refers to groups having 1, 2, or 3cells. Similarly, a group having 1-5 cells refers to groups having 1, 2,3, 4, or 5 cells, and so forth.

Various of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, oralternatives thereof, may be combined into many other different systemsor applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipatedalternatives, modifications, variations or improvements therein may besubsequently made by those skilled in the art, each of which is alsointended to be encompassed by the disclosed embodiments.

1. An adapter-connector system for making a fiber optic connectioncomprising: a housing having portals at first and second opposite endsand a passage extending between the first and second portals, theportals being sized and shaped for receiving fiber optic connectorshaving cylindrical ferrules, the housing further including an alignmentsleeve holder located in the passage; an alignment sleeve mounted by thealignment sleeve holder in the passage in an orientation in which thecylindrical ferrule of one of the fiber optic connectors when pluggedinto one of said portals is received in the alignment sleeve, thealignment sleeve being configured to resiliently expand in diameter uponreceiving the cylindrical ferrule of one of the fiber optic connectors;the fiber optic connectors include at least one ferrule, and wherein theat least one ferrule is secured by a latch within the fiber opticconnectors.
 2. The adapter-connector system of claim 1 wherein thealignment sleeve has openings at opposite longitudinal ends of thealignment sleeve, the openings being sized smaller than a diameter ofthe cylindrical ferrule of said one of the fiber optic connectors thatcan be plugged into the adapter.
 3. The adapter-connector system ofclaim 2 wherein the alignment sleeve has at least one longitudinal slittherein extending lengthwise of the alignment sleeve and configured tofacilitate expansion of the alignment sleeve.
 4. The adapter-connectorsystem of claim 3 wherein there are two longitudinal slits in thealignment sleeve extending lengthwise of the alignment sleeve andconfigured to facilitate expansion of the alignment sleeve.
 5. Theadapter-connector system of claim 3 wherein the alignment sleeve is madeof zirconia.
 6. The adapter-connector system of claim 3 wherein thealignment sleeve is made of a polymer.
 7. The adapter-connector systemof claim 2 wherein the openings are sized smaller than a collar of thecylindrical ferrule so that the collar cannot enter the alignment sleeveand alignment sleeve limits the insertion of the cylindrical ferruleinto the alignment sleeve by engagement of the alignment sleeve with thecollar.